What To Know
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened and caramelized.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine with our comprehensive guide on how to make chicken teriyaki. This beloved dish, characterized by its sweet and savory glaze, is a staple in Japanese households and a culinary delight enjoyed worldwide.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup sake
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
2. Stir well to coat the chicken and cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens further.
Cook the Chicken:
1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
Glaze the Chicken:
1. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened and caramelized.
Serve:
1. Serve the chicken teriyaki hot over rice, noodles, or vegetables.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or shredded carrots for an authentic touch.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Teriyaki:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
- If you don’t have sake, you can substitute dry white wine.
- For a sweeter teriyaki sauce, add more brown sugar to taste.
- If the teriyaki sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
Variations:
- Chicken Teriyaki with Vegetables: Add sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Chicken Teriyaki with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a tropical twist.
- Chicken Teriyaki with Honey: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the teriyaki sauce for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: How long can I store leftover chicken teriyaki?
A: Leftover chicken teriyaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken teriyaki?
A: Rice, noodles, vegetables, and salads are all great side dishes for chicken teriyaki.
